Le Bristol in Paris

Our European Fashion Correspondent, Stephanie Newhouse takes on Paris Fashion Week. Check back here for daily updates, straight from la fashion week!

I took advantage of the fashion week calm before the storm and jumped at the chance to try out a signature treatment at Spa le Bristol by La Prairie. Le Bristol is an iconic Parisian landmark, not only known for its luxurious rooms and suites but an amazing Michelin-starred restaurant, and unbelievable people watching if you go there for afternoon tea. Take a discreet look around and you will see everything from royalty, billionaires, and movie stars, to well heeled locals meeting for a chat.

As I entered the spa, I was met by La Prairie specialist Margo who was kind enough to give give me a personal tour before my treatment. The spa area includes many of the usual amenities you would expect from a top notch spa, a well appointed gym, swimming pool, and treatment areas, but with unexpected little extras peppered throughout.

I was privy to a peep at a few of the recently refurbished treatment rooms, which are not yet open to the public. All are elegantly decorated, and overlook Le Bristol’s charmingly landscaped gardens, where guests can relax between treatments. I also peeked at one of two twin treatment rooms, which featured a whirlpool bath, a turkish bath, and a private terrace.

Again, lovely but not unusual. Here’s where the pampering touches come in: there is a children’s playroom, where your precious darling can play, read, and play Wii while Mummy or Dad take a well deserved break. There’s a hair salon as well as a private room for manis, pedis, and getting makeup done.

The private makeup and nail services are reportedly a very popular option for models and VIPs looking to stay runway-ready during PFW. In the basement is the Russian Room, which includes a heated marble table with hydrotherapy jets and a private turkish bath, for a therapeutic steam before your treatment.

After my tour, Margo led me to one of the Le Bristol suites which is currently being used as a treatment room until the newly renovated treatment rooms are unveiled. After examining my skin and asking me questions designed to ensure the treatment was tailored to me, Margo determined that the best treatment for my poor parched & sensitive skin would be the 90 minute cellular hydrating facial.

The facial, which includes revitalizing massages and energizing masks, is designed to produce dramatic results for stressed and fatigued skin. Using products containing La Prairie’s patented cellular anti ageing compound, Margo worked her magic. When I came out of my blissful relaxation coma, I was led to the mirror to assess the results.

My skin was glowing. It looked like I’d actually stayed in and slept instead of hanging out in the bistros of Montmartre until the wee hours. Though I was a lucky enough to be gifted this visit, I would consider a visit here a worthy investment in looking and feeling great and I plan on coming back again before I leave Paris.

Au Revoir! xo